Author: Gugu Lourie
At the 2025 Huawei South Africa Connect event, Jonas Bogoshi, CEO of BCX, delivered a keynote on Africa’s urgent need to harness artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure to secure its economic sovereignty. His message was clear: in today’s rapidly changing world, economic power has become the new diplomatic language and Africa must act decisively to claim its place in this new order. Bogoshi framed his address around what he termed the “second American Revolution” – not a war for independence, but a strategic realignment of global power dynamics under U.S. President Donald Trump. He emphasised that these geopolitical shifts have…
In a recorded address to Huawei South Africa Connect 2025, President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted the company’s critical contributions to national development through technology. “We are living in a time of rapid technological change,” he noted, emphasizing how digital innovation is reshaping lives, work, and interactions across South Africa. The President emphasised Huawei’s longstanding partnership with the nation, particularly in expanding rural connectivity via its Digital Village Initiative and upskilling youth through the Huawei ICT Academy. “Huawei work is improving productivity and service delivery, while also helping to create jobs and to prepare our youth for the future,” he stated. Huawei’s…
A new ASUS survey reveals that 77% of South African business decision-makers are prepared to adopt AI tools immediately, with more than half already seeing measurable benefits. The findings highlight a tech-savvy market actively leveraging AI to boost productivity, refine decision-making, and enhance customer experiences. The data comes from the ASUS 2025 Future of SMBs report, which explores how small and midsize businesses (SMBs) are approaching digital transformation. The results reflect not only enthusiasm for innovation but also growing confidence in AI’s tangible impact. “There’s real momentum behind AI adoption in South Africa. Instead of holding back, businesses are embracing…
Lesaka Technologies has finalised the divestment of its entire equity interest in Indian digital payments platform One Mobikwik Systems Limited. The transaction, executed through Lesaka’s Netherlands-based subsidiary Net 1 Applied Technologies B.V., generated net proceeds of approximately R290 million or $16.3 million. The South African fintech company disclosed the completion of the sale in a June 30, 2025 Form 8-K filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The shares were disposed of on the Indian Stock Exchange on June 26, 2025, with the rand-dollar exchange rate pegged at ZAR 17.75 to USD 1.00 at the time of transaction. Strategic…
Former Transnet executives Brian Molefe, Siyabonga Gama, Anoj Singh, and ex-engineer Thamsanqa Jiyane were granted bail of R50,000 each today at the Palm Ridge Magistrates’ Court. The four were arrested earlier this morning on charges of fraud, corruption, and money laundering linked to an ongoing investigation. Ex-Transnet Execs Brian Molefe, Siyabonga Gama To Appear In Palm Ridge Court The Hawks have arrested two former Transnet executives, Brian Molefe and Siyabonga Gama, in connection with a controversial R93-million locomotive procurement deal. The two appeared in court to apply for bail following their arrest, which stems from corruption allegations detailed in the…
KFC taps into the modern conversation with a clever campaign that shows some will do ‘A.I.nything for the Taste’ of its Finger Lickin’ Good food. The past few weeks saw a mysterious South African AI launch making headlines and causing a stir on social media. The AI, known as KAIIA, reported to be fluent in 11 local languages, trained for local nuance and fine-tuned to Mzansi culture, was leaked via a network of tech enthusiasts. KAIIA, which stands for Kentucky AI Integrated Assistant, is the star of the brand’s latest TV and cinema commercial in which it goes to extraordinary lengths…
Lesaka Technologies (Nasdaq: LSAK; JSE: LSK) has announced a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of Bank Zero, a South African digital bank co-founded by former FNB CEO Michael Jordaan. The deal, valued at R1.1 billion, will be settled through a combination of newly issued Lesaka shares (giving Bank Zero shareholders a 12% stake) and up to R91 million in cash. “Our partnership with Lesaka creates long-term value, combining digital banking innovation with fintech scale,” said Jordaan, Bank Zero Chairman. The transaction remains subject to standard closing conditions and regulatory approvals, including clearance from the South African Reserve Bank’s Prudential Authority,…
Capitec Bank has thrown its weight behind Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber’s initiative to modernise South Africa’s population registration database. This comes after digital bank TymeBank strongly criticised Schreiber’s decision to impose significant price hikes for online identity verification services. The move signals growing tensions between financial institutions and the government over the cost and efficiency of critical ID checks. “Capitec supports the Department of Home Affairs’ initiative to upgrade the National Population Register and enhance the stability and reliability of its Online Verification System,” Capitec said in a statement. “A secure and stable national identity system is crucial for…
The refreshed Kia Sorento redefines the large family SUV segment with bold design, advanced technology and outdoor-ready performance. Built to inspire confidence, it sets new benchmarks with futuristic innovation, intelligent safety systems and a premium digital driving experience. “The Sorento’s evolution echoes Kia’s brand transformation. A rich package of advanced safety features and highly efficient powertrains make it perfect for customers seeking a safe, reliable, and relaxed drive,” says Paul Turnbull, CEO of Kia South Africa. Next-Gen Tech for a Smarter Drive The Sorento’s dual 12.3-inch panoramic screens (infotainment + digital cluster) and 10-inch head-up display keep drivers informed without distraction. The digital rear-view mirror doubles as a camera feed for unobstructed visibility,…
Fabricio Bloisi, Group CEO of Prosus and Naspers, has expressed strong confidence in Takealot’s ability to maintain its leadership position in South Africa’s competitive e-commerce landscape, even as global players like Amazon enter the market. In a Zoom discussion, Bloisi outlined the company’s strategic priorities while emphasising continued support for Takealot through technology transfers, operational investments and local community development initiatives. The Naspers CEO explained the company’s current geographic focus areas, making clear that while Latin America, India and Europe represent immediate priorities for new investments, South Africa remains a crucial operational market. “Because of our existing South African operations,…